Condolences pour in after death of civil rights activist Jaime Martinez

SAN ANTONIO – Longtime civil rights activist Jaime Martinez died at the age of 70 on Sunday after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Martinez was born and raised on San Antonio's West Side. He was a strong voice for migrant workers and helped organize marches across the nation, including the annual Cesar Chavez March for Justice in San Antonio.

RELATED: Jaime Martinez funeral services announced

Condolences have poured in since news of his death. Here's a look at some tributes honoring Martinez. 

Mayor Ron Nirenberg:

"Jaime Martinez's tireless, lifelong work to advance civil rights and workers' rights changed San Antonio and the nation for the better. Jaime's memory will be forever honored by the city that he called home, ensuring that the legacy of Cesar Chavez will continue to be celebrated long into the future.

"Jaime will be missed, but his vision of dignity for all will continue to be a light that guides our path, and it will be led by the generations of advocates that he and his family inspire. Rest in peace, Jaime Martinez."

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-San Antonio): 

"A powerful voice for the oppressed—civil  rights, immigrant rights, worker rights—remains with us only in spirit.  Jaime Martinez lost his long struggle with cancer but inspires us to continue the struggle for social justice.  He has been my friend for more than 30 years—preserving the legacy of Cesar Chavez,  promoting educational opportunities with his scholarship program, and always seeking to do more for those who have the least.  Our prayers are with his wonderful family and his extended family working together to build a better America."

Councilwoman Viagran:

My heartfelt condolences go out to Jaime Martinez’s family and everyone who worked with him. San Antonio was blessed to have him as a distinguished leader in the civil rights movement. He helped break barriers by using education to empower our communities, and there’s no doubt that Jaime’s activism changed our city’s trajectory in tremendous ways.

His legacy and family will remain a powerful force in our city. He will certainly continue to be an inspiration to all people fighting for justice and equality. God bless him and his legacy.”

Councilman Rey Saldaña:

“Jaime was a guiding light in the endless search for equality and justice for our community’s most vulnerable residents. His memory will live on in the advocacy that echoes in public demonstrations, our annual Cesar Chavez march, and within our council chambers."

Councilman Roberto Treviño:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Civil Rights activist Jaime Martinez. He was a brilliant and driven person whose legacy has left an everlasting imprint on our city. The respect and dignity Jaime held for each and every individual earned him the devotion and friendship of many locally as well as across the country.

My sincerest condolences go out to his friends and loved ones during this time. It was truly an honor to march alongside Jaime. Like the many who knew him, I will never forget the discussions we had on history, equality, and equity. May he rest in eternal peace.” 

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